Unity, faith and discipline are the key pillars
Pakistan’s ongoing economic and social challenges are not the result of limited resources, but rather persistent political instability, inconsistent policies, weak institutions, neglect of education, and a lack of national discipline, Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal stated on Thursday.
Launch of ‘Year of Quaid-i-Azam 2026’ Celebrations
The minister was addressing a high-profile ceremony at the Convention Centre to formally launch year-long nationwide celebrations declaring 2026 as the “Year of Quaid-i-Azam.”
The event, titled “Quaid’s Pakistan – Uraan Pakistan,” featured:
- Youth-led video messages
- A panel discussion involving prominent scholars and policymakers
- Performances of patriotic national songs
Uraan Pakistan: Translating Vision into Action
A Practical Development Framework
Mr. Iqbal described Uraan Pakistan not as a symbolic initiative, but as a concrete execution framework aimed at transforming Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision into a modern, competitive, and knowledge-based economy capable of reaching the trillion-dollar mark.
Five Pillars of Uraan Pakistan
The initiative is structured around five strategic pillars:
- Export-led economic growth
- e-Pakistan and digital transformation
- Equity and empowerment
- Environment and climate resilience
- Energy and infrastructure development
Call for Unity, Discipline, and Consistency
The planning minister stressed that national unity, collective effort, and policy continuity are essential for achieving the social and economic progress envisioned by the Founder of the Nation.
He highlighted that rebuilding Pakistan in line with Quaid-i-Azam’s core principles is the most urgent national requirement.
Lessons from Quaid-i-Azam’s Leadership
Reflecting on Quaid-i-Azam’s life, Mr. Iqbal noted that:
- Jinnah did not inherit power or command armies
- He reshaped history through constitutional struggle, integrity, and moral courage
Reviewing Pakistan’s 77-year journey, he acknowledged both achievements and setbacks, emphasizing that every challenge must be converted into an opportunity for growth and stability.
Quaid’s Vision for Pakistan
A Democratic and Merit-Based State
According to the minister, Quaid-i-Azam envisioned Pakistan as:
- A democratic and inclusive state
- A merit-based society with a strong economy
- A country where minorities enjoy equal citizenship
- A nation governed by rule of law and impartial institutions
He warned that corruption, nepotism, intolerance, and disorder were identified by Quaid-i-Azam as the most serious threats to national survival.
“Whenever we followed discipline, we progressed. Whenever we allowed division, we declined,” he said.
Message for the Youth
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, also speaking at the ceremony, said that Quaid-i-Azam’s principled life and unwavering commitment continue to serve as a guiding light for the younger generation.
He added that such initiatives help citizens better understand the life, vision, and values of the Founder of the Nation.
Key Suggestions for National Progress
- Ensure political stability through constitutional continuity
- Strengthen institutions and promote merit-based governance
- Invest consistently in education and youth development
- Enforce discipline, accountability, and rule of law
- Align national policies with long-term economic planning